Cosmopolitan and exciting, the city is encompassed by sweeping seascapes and awe-inspiring Scottish Highlands. Whether you want to take in the city itself or experience nature, you can do both from Aberdeen with plenty of things to see and do.
Out and About
With year-round outdoor sporting activities, spectacular views and dramatic scenery only a short drive away, getting out into the Scottish Highlands from Aberdeen couldn’t be easier. In the warmer months, take advantage of the longer days and get active. Go hiking or cycle in a setting that was meant to be explored.
For something a little more extreme, sports enthusiasts and thrill seekers will be eager to visit Royal Deeside. In winter these mountains become a ski resort and whether you’re a beginner or a pro, hitting the slopes is an excellent day out.
The City of Granite
The Granite Mile is one of the most distinctive elements of the city centre. A mile-long street famous for its architecture, the Granite Mile is dotted with designer shops, charming cafes and quaint art galleries.
Aberdeen also plays host to a variety of cultural hotspots to pique your interest, including the Tolbooth Museum and the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, along with a year-round calendar of festivals and events to enjoy.
Granite is not the easiest stone to work with, but for a glimpse of what can be achieved by real artisans, head to Marischal College, part of the University of Aberdeen (although currently housing the council).
Fashioned in Gothic style in granite, construction started in 1835 but wasn’t completed until the early 20th century. It’s an imposing building, but with charming touches of elaborate masonry.
A Royal Castle
Sitting in the incredible scenery of the Scottish Highlands, the beloved holiday home of the British Royal Family is a truly stunning sight. Balmoral Castle is just over an hour drive from the city.
Take a day and visit the 50,000-acre estate, where you can explore the grounds, gardens and exhibitions which are open to the public. Be sure to check the dates that the castle is open, as it is closed whenever the Royal Family is in residence.
If it is, sample some seafood fit for royalty at one of Aberdeen’s many excellent restaurants. Silver Darling is located in an old customs house and the hot seafood platter of scallops, mussels, langoustines, prawns and more comes highly recommended.
The lunch menu is a steal, while their take on fish and chips – deep-fried haddock with a herb crust – is worth keeping room for. Alternatively, head to the feted Adelphi Kitchen for boisterous barbecue cooking. Southern fried chicken with pepperoni potatoes, BBQ pulled duck, short ribs and pungent mac 'n' cheese make it the home of rib-sticking food.
The Coastline
Aberdeen’s coastline is perfectly characterised by its rugged cliffs and long sandy bays. Drive south along the coast and visit one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, Dunnottar Castle.
Only a half-hour drive away, the castle sits neatly on a rocky outcrop and offers uninterrupted views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. The coastline also plays host to a thriving wildlife. At the sea's edge you can experience the wonder of urban dolphins swimming only metres away and watch seals and puffins inhabiting the nearby cliffs.
In the winter there are rare and lucky occasions when you can also experience the otherworldly beauty of the Northern Lights.
